Bascom joins Norfolk: Is Arrieta on the move?

In a move that potentially could lead to Jake Arrieta joining the Orioles, right-hander Tim Bascom has joined the Triple-A Norfolk Tides. Bascom has not yet been activated, but soon could be joining the Norfolk rotation. The 25-year-old right-hander is 3-4, 3.43 in 11 starts with Double-A Bowie. Over 63 innings, he gave up 71 hits with just ten walks to 41 strikeouts. He has allowed 2 ER or less in seven of his 11 Baysox starts. Bascom is a fourth-round pick from 2007. Bascom last started for Bowie on Friday, so his scheduled day to pitch is tomorrow. Right now, the Tides list Armando Gabino as their Wednesday starter and Arrieta for Thursday. Arrieta, who pitched two innings in relief in his last appearance, on Saturday, is 6-2, 1.85 on the season for the Tides. Bascom would be making his Triple-A debut if he makes a start for Norfolk. Arrieta leads the International League in innings, ERA and opponent batting average against at .189 and is fifth in the league in strikeouts. All of this is likely related to the Orioles rotation. The Birds will need another fifth starter on Saturday and could take Brad Bergesen out of the pen and start him there or callup someone from the minors, like Arrieta, for that start. Kevin Millwood is scheduled to start for the O's tonight with Chris Tillman listed for Wednesday, Jeremy Guthrie Thursday and Brian Matusz on Friday. Saturday's starter is listed as to be announced at this point.